As parents, it’s nearly impossible to keep up with every new TikTok challenge. Just when one trend disappears, another one seems to take its place. One of the latest trends making the rounds is called “Beezin,” and while it may seem harmless, eye doctors have real concerns about what it can do to your child’s eyes.
At Monarch Bay Optometry in Dana Point, we believe parents deserve accurate information so they can make informed decisions and have meaningful conversations with their children.
What Is the “Beezin” Trend?
“Beezin” involves applying Burt’s Bees Lip Balm directly onto the eyelids. Many TikTok videos claim it creates a cooling sensation that makes users feel more awake, alert, or even mildly “high.”
While it may sound like a harmless prank, the skin around the eyes is one of the thinnest and most sensitive areas of the body. Products designed for the lips were never intended to be used on the eyelids.
Why Is Putting Lip Balm on the Eyelids Dangerous?
Many lip balms contain ingredients such as menthol, peppermint oil, eucalyptus, fragrances, and other compounds that create a cooling sensation. Around the eyes, these same ingredients can become irritating.
Possible side effects include:
● Burning or stinging
● Excessive tearing
● Red, irritated eyes
● Swollen eyelids
● Itching
● Contact dermatitis (an allergic skin reaction)
● Chemical irritation to the surface of the eye
● Increased risk of infection from rubbing irritated eyes
Children and teenagers may not realize that even if something feels “cool,” it doesn’t mean it’s safe.
Why Parents Should Pay Attention?
One study evaluating the most popular Beezin videos found over 158 million combined views. Even more concerning:
● More than half of the videos portrayed the trend positively.
● No healthcare professionals created the most-viewed videos.
● Only a small percentage of videos mentioned any possible risks.
When children repeatedly see content presented as funny or harmless, they may assume it’s safe without understanding the consequences.
Signs Your Child May Be Trying the Beezin Trend
Many parents don’t discover these trends until after symptoms develop.
Watch for:
- Red or swollen eyelids
- Eyes that constantly water
- Complaints that the eyes burn or sting
- Rubbing the eyes more than usual
- A rash around the eyelids
- Lip balm being carried specifically for social media challenges
- Your child mentioning “Beezin” or talking about TikTok eye hacks
The earlier you recognize the signs, the easier it is to prevent more serious irritation.
How to Talk to Your Child About TikTok Trends
Instead of simply saying “Don’t do it,” try asking questions.
● “Have you seen this trend?”
● “Why do you think people are doing it?”
● “Do you think everyone posting these videos knows whether it’s actually safe?”
Helping children think critically about what they see online often has a greater impact than simply telling them no.
Remind them that viral content is designed to get views—not necessarily to protect their health.
Healthy Ways to Care for Tired Eyes
If your child complains that their eyes feel tired after school or screen time, there are much safer options.
Encourage them to:
- Take regular screen breaks using the 20-20-20 Rule (every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds)
- Use cool compresses if their eyes feel tired
- Stay well hydrated
- Get adequate sleep
- Avoid rubbing their eyes
- Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, leafy greens, colorful fruits, and vegetables
- Wear sunglasses with UV protection outdoors
- Schedule routine comprehensive eye exams
When Should You See an Eye Doctor?
If your child has participated in the Beezin trend, contact an eye care professional if they develop:
- Persistent redness
- Swollen eyelids
- Eye pain
- Blurred vision
- Light sensitivity
- Discharge or crusting
- Burning that continues for several hours
Prompt treatment can help prevent complications and keep the eyes healthy.
The Bottom Line for Dana Point Parents
Social media trends come and go, but your child’s vision needs to last a lifetime.
The Beezin trend may look harmless on TikTok, but applying lip balm to the eyelids can lead to irritation, allergic reactions, and even injury to the eyes. The best defense is staying informed, keeping communication open with your child, and seeking professional advice whenever something doesn’t seem right.
At Monarch Bay Optometry, we’re committed to helping families throughout Dana Point, Monarch Beach, Laguna Niguel, San Juan Capistrano, Laguna Beach, Capistrano Beach, and the surrounding Orange County communities protect their children’s vision.
Whether your child has eye irritation, spends hours on digital devices, or simply needs a yearly comprehensive eye exam, we’re here to help.
Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam at Monarch Bay Optometry
If your child has tried the Beezin trend—or if you have concerns about eye irritation, screen time, or your child’s overall eye health—we’d love to help.
Monarch Bay Optometry Dana Point, California
Schedule a comprehensive eye exam today and let us help keep your child’s eyes healthy for years to come.
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